That perseverance is exactly why Ellis feels the charismatic former politician should be honoured.

“He made it so that everyone understood that everyone is equal … he proved that Canada was different and it could be different.”

Ellis, along with co-creator Shawn Spicer, will present their petition to city council when they get 500 signatures. They don’t have a date set but are hoping city staff can spearhead the project.

“We’re hoping the city takes the lead, they can section out the piece of property where it will go, get the quotes then open it up to the public to help them out,” he said adding there would be no shortage of aid.

Alexander became Canada’s first black MP in 1968, holding the riding of Hamilton West for the Conservatives until 1980. He served as lieutenant governor of Ontario from 1985 to 1991.

Following his retirement, he was appointed a Companion of the Order of Canada and to the Order of Ontario.

Thousands lined the streets for his funeral last month.

“He may have been born in Toronto but even with how many prestigious positions he held within our government, he stayed here in Hamilton,” Ellis said.